Seek opportunities to show you care. The smallest gestures often make the biggest difference.
John WoodenRead
The goal in life is the same as in basketball: make the effort to do the best you are capable of doing--in marriage, at your job, in the community, for your country. Make the effort to contribute in whatever way you can. You may do it materially or with time, ideas, or work. Making the effort to contribute is what counts. The effort is what counts in everything.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The key to success in life is making an effort to contribute your best in all areas, including relationships and work.
John Wooden emphasizes that the fundamental goal of life parallels that of basketball: to strive for excellence and contribute positively in various aspects of life such as marriage, work, and community. He asserts that it is the effort we put into our endeavors that truly matters, regardless of the form it takes—be it time, ideas, or tangible contributions.
Themes
EffortContributionExcellenceMotivationSuccess
In practice
Example use cases
In a motivational speech to students about striving for excellence.
More from John Wooden
All quotes →Adaptability is being able to adjust to any situation at any given time.
John WoodenRead
I think you have to be what you are. Don't try to be somebody else. You have to be yourself at all times.
John WoodenRead
Your energy and enjoyment, drive and dedication will stimulate and greatly inspire others.
John WoodenRead
A leader’s most powerful ally is his or her own example.
John WoodenRead
The most important thing in the world is family and love.
John WoodenRead
Similar quotes
Years ago I learned to be totally responsible for Dionne Warwick. I will not wait for opportunities. I will create them.
Dionne WarwickRead
Don't undertake a project unless it is manifestly important and nearly impossible.
Edwin LandRead
We are not sent into this world mainly to enjoy the loveliness therein, nor to sit us down in passive ease; no, we were sent here for action. The soul that seeks to do the will of God with a pure heart, fervently, does not yield to the lethargy of ease.
Dorothea DixRead
Be a yardstick of quality. Some people aren't used to an environment where excellence is expected.
Steve JobsRead
If you would attract good fortune, you must get rid of doubt. As long as that stands between you and your ambition, it will be a bar that will cut you off. You must have faith. No man can make a fortune while he is convinced that he can't.
Orison Swett MardenRead
I think the most important thing of all for any team is a winning attitude. The coaches must have it. The players must have it. The student body must have it. If you have dedicated players who believe in themselves, you don't need a lot of talent.
Bear BryantRead